Balfour Beatty Rail showcases skills with Gold Line Extension opening

The
Gold Line Eastside Extension in Los Angeles, a major Balfour Beatty Rail, Inc.
project, marked the beginning of its light rail service with a grand opening ceremony
Nov. 15 at the extension's Civic Station.

Balfour
Beatty Rail started work in 2004 on the Eastside extension in a joint venture
with electrical contractor Steiny and Co. The extension runs from Union Station
to Pomona Boulevard and Atlantic Boulevard.

"This
has been a landmark project for Balfour Beatty Rail, one that demonstrates the
expertise and versatility of our people in a big way," said Joe Reed, vice
president of Transit. "The work we've done here certainly won't go unnoticed.
This is going to have an impact on area transportation for a long time to come.

Balfour Beatty
Rail designed, installed and tested the system components for the Los Angeles
County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The $90-million project entailed
several miles of at-grade stretches and a two-mile underground segment that
includes two double-level stations. Included in the work were signals,
communications, traction power and the overhead catenary system.

"Our
crew deserves recognition for executing this very complex project," said Jim
Moynihan, president and CEO of Balfour Beatty Rail, Inc. "It's a tribute to the
depth of their skills. Stringing lines, building the stations, constructing
track - they've done it all, as well as anyone can."

Metro
Gold Line anticipates 13,000 passengers will ride the extension on an average
weekday after the first year of operation.